There are many types of drivers on the roadways. Unfortunately, many of them are aggressive drivers who put you and your loved ones at risk of being seriously injured in a Southern California car accident.

The AAA’s Foundation for Traffic Safety defines aggressive driving as “any unsafe driving behavior, performed deliberately and with ill intention or disregard for safety.”

Aggressive driving is one of the top safety concerns for drivers and rightly so. A study by AAA discovered that aggressive driving was a factor in 56 percent of the fatal auto accidents reviewed by researchers.

Some of the examples of aggressive driving include:

Tailgating

Weaving in and out of traffic

Failing to yield the right of way

Not allowing other drivers to pass

Driving at excessive speeds

Running stop signs or red lights

Fortunately, there are many steps that you can take in avoiding a confrontation with an aggressive driver. First, do everything that you can do to get out of their way.

Whatever you do, do not try to challenge them by speeding up to them. This may escalate their emotions and put you at even greater risk. This even includes avoiding eye contact with the reckless motorist. The outcome may not be worth the momentary sense of satisfaction by offering a gesture of your own.

As always, make sure you and your occupants are properly buckled up. This can help minimize bodily injury if you are involved in a collision.

Lastly, don’t hesitate to report an aggressive driver to the proper authorities by safely using your cell phone. This may prevent an accident farther on down the road that may not involve you. You might become a hero.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a California auto accident, you should contact one of our experienced Southern California car accident attorneys at Steinberg Injury Lawyers at (800) 989-6385.